The Oregon Department of Forestry is seeking to fill a vacant advisory committee position for its Certified Burn Manager (CBM) Program. The intent of the CBM program is to provide oversight of training opportunities and certification for the safe and effective use of prescribed burning.
The Department is accepting applications to serve on the CBM Advisory Committee through Jan. 31, 2025. The committee advises ODF on program implementation and helps provide oversight. Committee position applications are available on ODF’s website.
“ODF is seeking individuals with experience or expertise with prescribed fire planning, implementation, and regulation to serve on the committee,” said Levi Hopkins, Oregon Department of Forestry’s Fire Protection Division Deputy Chief of Policy and Planning.
The committee meets annually, but more frequently if needed. The main duties for committee members are to advise the State Forester on the administration of the program and conduct reviews of proposed certification revocations when necessary. The committee positions are unpaid, but members may be reimbursed for travel expenses. Members serve up to three-year terms and can serve two consecutive terms. Appointments will be made by the State Forester in February, with the next CBM Advisory Committee meeting in late February 2025.
“This is a great opportunity to join a diverse group that represents the full suite of interests in prescribed fire and its impacts to communities across Oregon,” said Hopkins. “This important program promotes consistent standards and fair and equitable administration of the CBM program.”
ODF launched the program in late spring of 2023. Although the certification is voluntary, Hopkins says many forestland owners and fire professionals have already sought certification.
“The certification process is thorough but straightforward,” said Hopkins. “You need to complete the classroom training curriculum, pass a test, and demonstrate field proficiency.”
There are also streamlined requirements to become certified in Oregon for those that currently hold:
- a NWCG Burn Boss certification;
- a comparable CBM certification in another state;
- or have other professional experience as burners. This is an applicable pathway until Jan. 1, 2026.
The cost of certification is $50; however, third-party training providers may charge fees for the trainings they offer. The certification is valid for five years and there are no costs for recertification.
“The CBM is a win-win program,” said Hopkins. “It’s a win for the person getting the certification because now in addition to robust classroom training and supervised field experience, they also get certain civil liability protections if a prescribed fire results in unintended impacts. Then, it is a win for Oregonians to have certified professionals using prescribed fire as a tool in a consistent and safe manner to reduce the risks of wildfire throughout the state.”
Recognizing the importance of prescribed fire, the 2021 Legislature directed ODF to create a Certified Burn Manager Program. The program was one of several to address Oregon’s wildfire crisis. The Board of Forestry approved the administrative rules establishing the program in 2022.
Prescribed fire, also known as controlled burning, is the planned and controlled use of fire by a team of experts under specific conditions such as favorable temperature, wind, and humidity. Prescribed fire is used to help reduce the risk of wildfire, restore ecosystems that depend on fire, increase wildlife habitat, and increase community and firefighter safety.
Visit the ODF prescribed fire website to find out more about becoming a Certified Burn Manager.
